As a highly sensitive person, I often wondered why I felt emotions much more intensely compared to those around me. I felt out of place in a cerebral-driven society and struggled to express my feelings in a manner where I felt safe. Post-counselling, I came to realize that my sensitivity and inner experiences were a gift. When channelled effectively, they become a powerful tool for navigating life, making decisions, and managing the overwhelming emotions that are an inevitable part of life.

My professional journey has always been deeply human-centered. Initially, my interest in psychology led me to explore training and development. This exposure helped me realize my passion for delving deeper into human emotions and challenges. Consequently, I decided to pursue a Master’s in Counselling—a decision that has profoundly shaped my life. Counselling has had a significant impact on my personal resilience in coping with life’s stressors. I strongly resonate with the idea that therapists must embody the traits and values they aim to impart to their clients, which has guided my professional growth.

During my practicum and internship, I had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, including adolescents, the elderly, university students, LGBTQ individuals, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds (such as Malaysia’s B40 group). At MIASA, my internship site, I supported clients with severe mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, grief, and borderline personality disorder. Working in a predominantly Muslim context also deepened my understanding of providing culturally sensitive care. Additionally, during my internship at KyoChon Sdn. Bhd., a food and beverage corporation, I provided free counselling services to corporate staff, addressing work-related stress and assessing their general well-being.

At Think City, I gained firsthand experience addressing the challenges faced by urban poor communities, particularly in low-cost housing areas. This role broadened my perspective on societal issues, offering insight into the intersections of social dynamics and public policy. It equipped me to view problems not just at the individual level but from a macro perspective, fostering a more holistic understanding of the complexities within communities.

My primary therapeutic approaches are Person-Centred Therapy (PCT) and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT). In Person-Centred Therapy (PCT), developed by Carl Rogers, I foster a safe, non-judgmental space built on openness, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence to empower clients toward autonomy and personal growth. PCT is supplemented by EFT which focuses on emotions as central to healing, rooted in attachment theory, emphasizing the importance of positive attachment figures in building resilience.

Drawing on these experiences, I aspire to serve my clients effectively by providing a on-judgmental, empathetic space where they feel supported in becoming the best versions of themselves. My goal is to inspire hope by highlighting personal strengths, fostering resilience, and facilitating meaningful personal growth in others.